Lexus Feature Gives Info on Surroundings With a Simple Finger Point

Tech Breakthrough

It's been roughly a couple of years since Lexus revealed that it would be transitioning its entire lineup to all-electric vehicles in the coming years, and thus far, the luxury brand has also treated us to a few concepts previewing what that future might look like. This process continued at the recent 2023 Japan Mobility Show, where Lexus unveiled the LF-ZC and  LF-ZL concepts, which are quite stunning to look at. However, somewhat overshadowed by this debut is an incredibly cool new feature that Lexus calls Interactive Reality in Motion.

Photos: Lexus

Point and Shoot

This particular feature is part of Lexus' new Arene OS, which is currently in the early stages of development. Regardless, it's ready enough that Lexus already has a working prototype of Interactive Reality in MotioThisn, which essentially lets users point at anything they see outside of their vehicle, after which the system provides information regarding that particular object or point of interest. 

Photos: Lexus

Virtual Search

This information runs the gamut from simple information such as the name of that particular thing, as well as more detailed info like online ratings for something like a restaurant, or even its operating hours. Think of it like a virtual search engine of sorts, saving one the trouble of having to use a phone or even an infotainment system in a vehicle, as we do now. 

Photos: Lexus

Early Stages

Lexus showed off Interactive Reality in Motion as part of its Japan Mobility Show display in a parking lot at Toyota's test center outside Nagoya, where the press was able to try it out in its early stages. There, it seemingly worked quite well, but there are obviously a lot of things to iron out before we see it in an actual production vehicle. 

Photos: Lexus

Potential Problems

For example, in densely packed urban areas, the system could easily get confused about what, exactly, one is pointing at, because it could be several things at once. It's also unclear how the system might respond to requests for information while driving at higher speeds, such as when we're on the highway or interstate. 

Photos: Lexus

Potential Benefits

Regardless, there are many potential benefits to such a system, particularly for those who are driving solo. Instead of fumbling with a phone or even trying to retrieve information via a voice command, having the ability to point and receive instant info regarding a potential stop could make a big difference in terms of reducing distracted driving. 

Photos: Lexus

Future Experiences

It's clear that Interactive Reality in Motion isn't quite ready for primetime, but the fact that Lexus has made it this far bodes well for the future. Toyota's luxury arm is fully committed to not only going electric for electric's sake, but also stuffing those future models with some truly compelling tech - which could make the difference for shoppers in what's shaping up to be a very competitive space. 

Photos: Lexus

>>Join the conversation about this futuristic Lexus feature right here at ClubLexus.com.

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